Ilesh Shantilal

Ilesh Shantilal was born on 23rd November 1961, in the quaint village of Navsari, Gujarat. From the dusty lanes of his childhood to the hallowed grounds of international cricket, Shantilal's journey is a tale of determination and sheer passion for the game of cricket.

Growing up in a cricket-loving region, Shantilal's fascination with bowling began when he was barely tall enough to grip a cricket ball. With limited resources but an abundance of ambition, he'd often mimic his idols by bowling to improvised stumps crafted from bamboo sticks in his backyard. Recognised for his talent at a young age, he soon found himself representing his school team at district-level tournaments.

Ilesh's big break came when he was selected for the Gujarat state team during the Ranji Trophy in the early 1980s. His uncanny ability to swing the ball both ways coupled with a deceptive pace made him a standout performer. In 1984, his performance caught the eyes of national selectors, leading to his much-celebrated international debut against a formidable West Indies side.

Throughout his career, Shantilal's repertoire of skills on the cricket field was nothing short of remarkable. He could adapt his batting style effortlessly to the game’s demands, whether it was defending meticulously to save a match or launching a blistering counterattack to seize momentum. Nevertheless, it was his bowling that set the cricketing world abuzz. Combining swing, seam, and spin in a lethal cocktail of deliveries, he proved to be a nightmare for batsmen across the globe.

Amongst his notable achievements, Shantilal's standout moment came during the World Cup final of 1987, where his five-wicket haul was instrumental in leading his team to victory, etching his name in the annals of cricketing history. He also earned a reputation as a fierce competitor against arch-rivals Pakistan; his duels with the legendary batsman Javed Miandad remain folklore in cricketing circles.

Beyond the records and accolades, Ilesh Shantilal's impact on the game is perhaps best encapsulated by his legacy as a mentor. He inspired a generation of cricketers with his work ethic and versatility, embodying the spirit of a true sportsman who played not just with talent but with heart and soul. His journey from the bylanes of Navsari to cricketing glory remains a testament to what tenacity and persistence can achieve.

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Bowling Stats